Iraq is accelerating its digitalization efforts with plans to implement a maritime single window at the major ports of Um Qasr (North and South).
From 30 June to 4 July, a team of experts from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) conducted a mission in Basra to assess the support needed for Iraq to achieve its goals.
As of 1 January 2024, all IMO Member States must use a one-stop digital platform, known as the “Maritime Single Window” (MSW), to facilitate the exchange of key information among stakeholders and agencies involved in the arrival, stay, and departure of ships at ports. This streamlines procedures and enhances the efficiency of global shipping.
With over 80% of Iraq’s imports passing through the Um Qasr ports, the maritime single window system will save both time and costs. Once implemented, it will be expanded to the Al-Faw Grand Port, which is set to open in December 2024, and other Iraqi ports in the future.
Moreover, IMO consultants met with senior Iraqi port officials, maritime administration representatives, government ministries, and other relevant authorities. They conducted field visits to observe port operations.
The mission’s detailed report, which includes recommendations, will guide the development of the MSW system in Iraq according to IMO principles and guidelines. It will also inform the development of related IT platforms that will interact with the MSW.
In addition, the mission was carried out through the IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) in coordination with the Maritime Attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, and the Ministry of Transport of Iraq, through the state-owned General Company of the port of Iraq.
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